This we never ever expected in our wildest dreams.

In our first exploratory dive, to a "reef" location provided by fishermen, we really didn't know what to expect. We didn't even know the depth. Perhaps it was another barrier reef of rocky ledges that seem to line the coast of Sri Lanka like multiple defense lines and providing for great dive sites.

It was not.

To our delight, disbelief and amazement, we descended on a mystical world of Gorgonian Fans! Never before have laid eyes on such a vast profusion of small and large Gorgonian Fans anywhere in Sri Lanka. To be sure this was a remarkable find and a precious gem in the jewel box of Sri Lankan diving.

At slightly over 35 meters the site is a flat sea bed covered by fans of various sizes as far as the eye can sea. Amidst the sea fans are hundreds of Red Tooth Triggerfish against a deep blue canvass of clear open ocean. The whole reef is in pristine condition. The Gorgonian's seem healthy and thriving.

Because of very strong currents, rapid head down descent is required or the site will be missed. Anchors should not be used here as they would damage the beautiful fans.

Given the depth and conditions this dive is recommended for experienced and independent divers. A Surface Marker Buoy is mandatory.